Perfect! Here are the best accommodation options for the west side (Chéticamp area) that should be open for your October 17th weekend:
1. Cornerstone Motel ⭐ My #1 pick
- Why: Brand new (newest in area), right at park entrance, stunning Chéticamp River setting
- Open: May 11 - October 27, 2025 (perfect timing!)
- Location: 16537 Cabot Trail, literally at the northwest entrance to Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- Features: River-view rooms, 10 acres with walking trails, fire pit, motorcycle/bicycle amenities, mini fridge/microwave in rooms
- Price: Around $160-180/night
- Contact: (902) 224-3232 | www.cornerstonemotel.com
- Best for: Nature lovers who want immediate park access and peaceful riverside setting
2. Laurie's Inn ⭐ Best for variety/reliability
- Why: Largest property (54 rooms), most options, centrally located in town
- Location: 15456 Cabot Trail, heart of Chéticamp village
- Features: Mountain AND ocean views, walking distance to restaurants/shops, multiple room types (king/queen/double options), some with private balconies
- Price: Starting at $160/night peak season (likely less in October)
- Contact: (902) 224-2400 | www.lauries.com
- Best for: Those who want to be in the village center with easy access to Acadian culture, restaurants, and amenities
3. Ocean View Motel & Chalets
- Why: Spectacular sunset views over the Gulf of St. Lawrence
- Location: 15569 Cabot Trail
- Features: Oceanfront location, chalets with kitchenettes, contactless check-in (new 2025), air conditioning, pet-friendly rooms, communal BBQs/fire pits
- Price: Mid-range
- Contact: www.oceanviewchalets.ca
- Best for: Sunset watchers and those wanting self-catering options
4. Silver Lining Inn & Motel
- Why: Solid mid-range option with good reviews
- Location: 15356 Cabot Trail, Chéticamp
- Features: Both inn and motel rooms available
- Contact: (902) 224-1129 | www.silverlininginn.ca
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers wanting reliable accommodation
5. Maison Fiset House (Boutique option)
- Why: Charming heritage inn with character, more intimate experience
- Location: 15050 Cabot Trail
- Features: Historic home, some rooms with whirlpool tubs, private balconies with harbour views, flat-screen TVs, minifridges
- Contact: (902) 224-1794 or toll-free 1-855-292-1794 | www.maisonfisethouse.ca
- Best for: Those wanting a B&B-style experience with Acadian heritage atmosphere
Book IMMEDIATELY - October 17th is:
- Peak fall foliage weekend
- Right before many places close for winter (most stay open until October 23-27)
- Popular with leaf-peepers from across North America
Pricing: October is shoulder season, so you'll see prices 20-30% lower than July/August peak. Expect $130-180/night range for most properties.
What's included: Most places have:
- Free WiFi
- Free parking
- Mini fridge/microwave/coffee maker
- Satellite TV
- Continental or full breakfast (varies by property)
Friday night: Book Cornerstone Motel
- Arrive Friday evening after your 5-hour drive
- You'll be right at the park entrance, ready for Saturday morning hiking
- The riverside setting with trails lets you stretch your legs after the drive
- Only 5 minutes from Chéticamp village for dinner
Why Cornerstone specifically?
- Location is unbeatable - you can practically roll out of bed onto the Skyline or Acadian trailheads
- Newer property means better amenities
- River setting is peaceful after a long drive
- You avoid staying IN the village (less tourist-focused, more nature-immersive)
Dining Friday night: Drive 5 minutes into Chéticamp for:
- Restaurant Evangeline - Traditional Acadian food
- Le Gabriel Restaurant - Often has live fiddle music on weekends
- Harbour Restaurant & Bar - Seafood focus
Would you like me to help you map out the specific timing for Friday's drive and Saturday's hiking schedule from this base?